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SAN → BWI
Which side of the plane to sit from San Diego International Airport (San Diego) to Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (Baltimore)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers a superior vantage point for the dramatic shift from the Pacific coastline to the Southern Rockies, featuring the best views of the Salton Sea and major Midwestern landmarks.
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San Diego Skyline
After a left-hand turn following takeoff, witness stunning views of Downtown, Balboa Park, and San Diego Bay.
Salton Sea
A massive, shimmering blue lake in the middle of the California desert, clearly visible about 20 minutes into the flight.
Southern Rockies
Look north to see the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Colorado Rockies as you cross the Continental Divide.
St. Louis Gateway Arch
On many flight paths, the iconic silver arch is visible as you cross the Mississippi River.
Appalachian Ridges
The distinct, long parallel ridges of the Appalachian Mountains appear during the descent into the Mid-Atlantic.
Book a window seat on the left for morning flights to keep the sun behind you, reducing glare on the desert and mountain landscapes. This side is also better for spotting the unique geography of the Salton Sea and the urban density of the East Coast during descent. In winter, keep your eyes peeled for snow coverage starting over New Mexico and intensifying over the Rockies.
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Point Loma & Coronado
Immediately upon takeoff, see the historic lighthouse at Point Loma and the iconic Hotel del Coronado.
Anza-Borrego Desert
Expansive views of rugged badlands, twisting canyons, and the stark beauty of the California desert floor.
Sonoran Desert
Vast desert stretches of Arizona, featuring volcanic craters and arid mountain ranges near the Mexican border.
Great Plains Patterns
The fascinating 'crop circle' geometry of center-pivot irrigation systems across Kansas and Missouri.
Chesapeake Bay
During the final approach into BWI, catch glimpses of the bay's northern reaches and the many inlets of Maryland.
The right side is ideal for seeing the coastal geography of San Diego immediately after wheels-up. During the mid-portion of the flight, this side provides the best light for photographing the geometric patterns of the Great Plains. When approaching Baltimore, the right side often offers views of the Chesapeake Bay and the rural rolling hills of Maryland and Northern Virginia.
Book Hotels in BaltimoreDistance: 3,686 km (2,290 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 4 hrs 20 min
Departure: SAN (32.7336006165, -117.190002441)
Arrival: BWI (39.1754, -76.668297)
Route Type: Domestic
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